Switch Up Your Morning Routine
For most households across the nation, coffee is a crucial component of the morning routine. But not everyone is so ready to hop on the coffee bandwagon. Recently, coffee alternatives have been popping up more and more. If you are looking to take a coffee break or are hoping to expand your morning beverage horizon, here are four delicious alternatives to try.
4 Coffee Alternatives to Consider
- Matcha is a type of green tea made by steaming, drying, and grinding the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant into a fine powder.[1] In contrast to “brewable” green tea, you consume the whole leaf. For this reason, you’re getting a much more concentrated source of antioxidants![2] Because you consume the whole leaf, matcha is typically higher in caffeine than regular brewed green tea and sometimes higher than coffee. The amount in each serving can vary widely, with a range of 35–250 mg per cup.[3]
- Chai Tea. Chai tea is a type of black tea blended with strong herbs and spices. Though it contains less caffeine than coffee, studies suggest that black tea may still improve mental alertness. Typically, chai teas and drinks contain about 48mg of caffeine.[4] Black and green teas are both made from the same type of plant, which fuels their antioxidant properties. In fact, some observational studies have linked drinking black tea with a lower risk of heart disease.[5] So, not only does Chai have some potential health benefits, but it is also delicious, semi-sweet in flavor, and makes for a great comfort drink on a bitter winter day.
- For those who need a little help with boosting their energy, you’re in luck! Caffeine is naturally found in kombucha, and although it is often minimal, many companies make their own that contains a higher caffeine rate. Kombucha is made by fermenting black tea with bacteria, yeast, and sugar. After fermentation, kombucha contains probiotics, acetic acid, and antioxidants — all of which have health benefits.[6] Kombucha has recently gained lots of popularity, and it’s no secret as to why. Because it is fermented, its bubbles provide individuals with a healthier alternative to soda. In addition, kombucha helps with digestion and comes in many different flavors.
- Lemon Water. Lastly, switching up your morning beverage doesn’t have to be complicated. Lemon water is a great way to start your day and will keep you hydrated and feeling fresh. Not to mention, it has zero calories, is caffeine-free, and provides a hefty dose of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant that plays an important role in your immune system and even helps to prevent sun damage to your skin.[7]
Exploring Your Options
While there’s a plethora of ways to enjoy a cup of Joe, some might not choose to drink it for a host of reasons. For example, some individuals experience negative side effects of the high caffeine intake accompanied by coffee. This can cause anxiety or irritation, commonly referred to as “the jitters.” Others might be confronted with digestive discomfort or headaches. Then you have the people who simply aren’t fans of the bitter taste or are bored with their usual morning K-cup. Regardless of where you fall on the coffee scale, remember, there are plenty of other options to consider! And after you have your morning beverage, [sc name=”comp_review”] to sign up with [sc name=”company_name”] for a complimentary review of your finances.
